Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Family - Space for Faith Formation

Rev. Philip Philip
Asst. Vicar, Houston Trinity

51 Then he went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them.
As a faithful Jew it was customary to Joseph and family to make pilgrimages to Jerusalem temple during the feast time with other members in the community. It was quiet natural to lose track of a young boy with such a large group of travelers.  His parents returned to Jerusalem to search for him. They find him as the one who sits among the teachers in the Temple. Hearing and asking questions is the symbol of a thirsty student who searches for God’s wisdom.
This passage clearly tells us that Jesus was adequately nurtured and equipped in the home that helped him to have profound knowledge about the scripture. This truth also reflected in Jesus’ affirmation, “Man does not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Faith formation in the family happens when we maintains a balance between bread (physical and mental needs) and Word (spiritual needs)
Mary asked, “Son, why have you treated us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you.” Then Jesus answered in a surprising way: “Why were you searching for me? … Didn’t you know I had to be in my Father’s house?”
His worship in the Temple helped him to realize his true identity.  When Jesus was born, angels proclaimed him as the Son of God (Luke 2:11). Now Jesus was claiming that identity for himself. This realization is the corner stone of his faith and action. Faith means risking everything for God’s reign and trusting utterly in God.
However his self-discovery did not make him arrogant.  His self-revelation never made him to underrate his humble parents. He went home with parents as a submissive son.   Given the growing rebelliousness of our times, Jesus’ attitude affirms the heroism of obedience. Obedience of Children to parents is biblical mandate. It is prescribed as an unconditional requirement, except when such obedience conflicts with the duty to obey God. Obedience to parents does not depend on the merit, distinction, affluence and personality of parents. It stems from the very source of parenthood, which is God himself.

PRAYER

Our loving and living God, we thank You for the gift of family life and its blessings. As a Christian family help us to grow together in Your grace. O Lord helps us to realize Your will about our life.  May the love that binds us only grow stronger as we fulfill the destiny You have laid out for us. In Jesus’ name we pray Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
A real Home is a temple where people are loved and respected in the recognition that life is a gift of God- Anonymous 

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